What should you know about syphilis?

Syphilis passes through contact with an infectious sore, often during vaginal, anal or oral sex. An early sore may be painless and can heal without treatment. Later, some people develop a rash, swollen glands, fever, tiredness or other symptoms, while others notice nothing. Without treatment, infection can remain in the body and may eventually affect the nervous system, eyes, heart or blood vessels.

A diagnosis cannot be made reliably from appearance alone. Blood tests are commonly used, and a clinician may examine a sore or discuss other tests. Tell the service about recent partners and any pregnancy, because this changes the advice and follow-up plan.

Arrange STI screening if you have a new diagnosis in a partner, an unexplained genital or mouth sore, a rash, or concern after sexual contact. Avoid sex until a clinician advises that it is safe, and do not share prescribed medicine. Antibiotic treatment is selected according to the stage and circumstances of infection. Partners may need assessment and treatment, and follow-up tests help confirm that care is working.

Seek prompt medical care for a new genital, anal or mouth sore, an unexplained rash, or symptoms after sexual contact. Get urgent help for eye pain or vision changes, severe headache, weakness, confusion, or difficulty walking. If you are pregnant and may have been exposed, contact a clinician promptly because untreated infection can harm a developing baby.

Ask which tests you need, when results will be available, what treatment schedule applies, and when follow-up testing is due. Discuss partner notification, sex during treatment, and whether you should also be checked for other infections.